When you're shopping at Marks&Spencer online store for your summer outfit, or looking for furniture to give your home a makeover, then spend a moment to also consider products from M&S Money Direct. Offering everything from savings accounts and credit cards, to Buildings Insurance and Motor Insurance, there's a lot more going on at Marks & Spencers than you might imagine.

In particular, if you're thinking of travelling soon, then consider Travel Insurance from M&S Money Direct. With images of volcano ash still fresh in many traveller's minds, it's good to remember there were many travellers who ended up wishing they had spent just a few pounds extra to obtain travel insurance for their trip. Of course, unfortunately, after the event is too late!

In fact, had you purchased travel insurance from M&S Money Direct, you would have been in good hands; within just a short time of the volcanic ash disruptions, visitors to the M&S Money Direct website would have seen a message stating that although claims relating to volcanic eruptions are not normally covered by travel insurance, that on this particular occasion, they would "allow claims from UK customers affected by the volcanic ash that has recently grounded flights."

Contrary to popular opinion, not every insurance company is out to get you, and it's not every insurance company that will disect the fine-print until they find some way of denying your insurance claim. However, you do need to shop around for the financial products and insurance policies that are the best suited for your individual needs.

That's why insurance policies, and other financial products, from Marks and Spencers are so useful. M&S Money Direct financial products are, of course, designed to make Mark & Spensers a profit, but there is no denying that they are also very good value for money, offering many features as standard which you'd often need to pay extra for at other insurance companies.

Take, for example, Buildings Insurance policies. Usually, UK Buildings Insurance policies have limits on particular types of items such as freezer contents, garden furniture and outdoor toys, outbuildings or cars, etc. These restrictions are called inner limits. However, the only inner limits on the M&S Money Direct Buildings Insurance policy are £500 for cash; £2m for property-owners and personal liability; £10m for domestic employees liability and £40,000 for tenants liability. Even better is the fact that you're likely to pay no more for M&S Money Direct Buildings Insurance than you will anywhere else, and you may even pay less with M&S.

M&S Money Direct offers a variety of financial and insurance products, but Motor Insurance is something that almost everyone needs - at least if you own a car. Unfortunately there are so many companies offering Motor Insurance today that, after a while, one policy may begin to look much like the next.

Thinking that most Motor Insurance policies are much the same is usually a bad idea. At worst it can be a very expensive mistake - this is when you find out that your Motor Insurance policy doesn't actually cover you for what you thought it did, or it takes your Motor Insurance company months and months to argue over whether to pay you or not. Fortunately M&S Money Direct Motor Insurance is not like that at all, and when you compare M&S Motor Insurance to the competition then it stacks up quite nicely.

For example, here are just some of the options which come as standard with Marks & Spenser 5 Star Premier cover Motor Insurance (correct at May 2009), which are quite often not included with comparable Motor Insurance plans from companies such as Direct Line, Sainsbury's, or Tesco Direct:

• Personal UK and European Breakdown Cover automatically included
• Comprehensive cover for trips abroad in the European Union - up to 90 days per trip
• Courtesy car during approved repairs automatically included
• Cover for Motor Legal Protection automatically included

So, it is clear that, besides being good value, M&S Motor Insurance also provides much more extensive cover than some of the top competitors. Additionally, you don't even need to be behind the wheel to benefit from M&S Money Direct UK and European Breakdown Cover, since it covers you as a passenger too.

Ultimate Non Iron Pure Cotton Short Sleeve Check Shirt, at Marks and Spencer
An innovative shirt in pure cotton. A special fabric finish and clever construction mean there is no need to iron this smart easycare shirt

Cashmilon™ Plain Knitted Gloves, at Marks & Spencer
Always handy, these warm cosy gloves are made from supersoft cashmilon™. Perfect with the matching scarf and hat

Silicone Nipple Covers, at Mark's & Spencer
There are some clothes that simply don't work with a bra. These secure and effective nipple covers make the perfect solution

George Bedtime Bear, at Marks and Spenser
An exciting introduction to the world of playtime, this interactive toy will have them entertained for hours of fun

Abbey Recliner, at Marks & Spensers
H99 x W97 x D91cm Reclines to L158cm. Seat H48cm (all dimensions are approximate) Seat cushions filled with shape-retaining foam - superior quality foam with a high density for added comfort and support Fabric options feature reversible cushions Frame made from solid hardwood. All main joints are glued and screwed to give the frame strength Frames are rigorously tested with 95kg weight equivalent and exceed standards set for heavy domestic use Solid birch feet with a dark finish Manual recline mechanism for extra relaxation All of our fabrics are treated with Stain-Defence™ - a stain resistant finish - at no extra cost. Fabrics are tested for resistance to wear and fading Detailed care instructions are included Free eco-friendly home delivery. Our crews will unpack, assemble and position the item This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more Free swatch samples: Order up to 6 free swatch samples of any fabric to help you choose your upholstery by calling 0845 603 1 603 Please note: Images displayed here act as a guide and may not be representative of the finished item. Fabrics are overlayed onto model images, so actual seams and pattern match may differ from what is shown. Leather furniture, in particular, has more seams than fabric upholstery due to the nature of the material, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Signature Natural Cotton Burner & Refresher Oil, at M & S
Natural cotton fragrance 15ml, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Autograph Essentials Wool Rich Deep Waistband Skirt, at Marks and Spencer
Luxurious and timeless, this smartly tailored pencil skirt is part of our exclusive Autograph Essentials range

Moisturising Age Repair Firming Day Cream, at Marks and Spencers
Firming day cream with ceramide Targets fine lines and wrinkles 50ml

Body Formula All Day Long Hand Cream with SPF15, at Mark's & Spencer
Liquorice to reduce the appearance of age spots Vitamin complex to strengthen and protect UVA and UVB filters shield the hand 75ml

The Cotton Collection Cotton Bud Hand Cream, at Marks and Spencers
Moisturising hand cream 250ml bottle with pump

Cracked Shell Pendant Necklace & Earrings, at Marks & Spenser
Pendant necklace Hook fastening earrings Cracked shell design

Button V-Neck Cover Up with Belt, at Marks and Spencer
Comes with belt shown in image Modern and stylish, this flattering beach dress is designed in the latest shape. A fabulous fashionable look

National Geographic Kids - Magazine Gift Subscription, at Marks and Spenser
National Geographic Kids is the monthly edu-tainment magazine for boys and girls. Jam-packed with the amazing images you'd expect from the National Geographic brand, National Geographic Kids is everything an inquisitive young mind needs

Collezione Plain Long Sleeve Shirt, at Mark & Spencers
Italian style is renowned for its attention to detail. Each collezione piece is designed with that same passion, using the finest fabrics and best tailoring techniques. Inspired by Italian flair, we've lavished time and care on this shirt to give you a feeling of luxury like no other

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS7 Digital Camera, at Marks & Spencer
Pixels: 10.1 megapixels Optical zoom: 4x Digital zoom: 4x Display: 2.7 inch TFT colour LCD Screen ISO Sensitivity: Auto / 80 / 100 / 200 / 400 / 800 / 1600 High Sensitivity (ISO 1600-6400) Dimensions: W9.7 x H5.4 x D2.1cm Weight: Approx. 139g with Battery and SD Memory Card, Approx. 117g (without) Power: ID-Security Li-ion Battery Pack (3.6V, 940mAh) (Included) / AC Adaptor (Input: 110-240V AC) (Optional) Recording Media: Built-in Memory (approx 50mb), SD Memory Card, SDHC Memory Card, MultiMediaCard (Still image only) Built-in-Flash: Auto, Auto/Red-eye Reduction, Forced On, Forced Off 0.3 - 6.3m (Wide/ISO Auto), 0.5 - 3.0m (Tele/ISO Auto)

Bay Tree Pyramid, at M+S
Presented in a large square planter, this beautiful bay tree is the perfect addition to any outdoor space Available for delivery from 28th April to 30th September 2009

Seville Antique Brass Soap Dish, at Marks & Spencer
Oval dish Wall mounted H6 x W14 x D13.3cm, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Floral Necklace & Hair Clip Set, at Marks & Spencer
Set of 3 Necklace with adjustable clasp fastening 2 hair clips Floral design Necklace length: 40cm, extendable by 5cm

County Life - Magazine Gift Subscription, at Marks and Spencers
Your life, your county, your choice! With this magazine gift subscription the recipient chooses one of 26 County magazines - Berkshire & Chiltern Life, Cheshire Life, Cornwall Life, Cotswold Life, Derbyshire Life, Devon Life, Dorset Magazine, Essex Life, Hampshire Life, Hereforshire Life, Hertforshire Life, Kent Life, Lake District Life, Lancashire Life, North East Life, Oxfordshire Life, Peak District Life, Shropshire Life, Somerset Life, Stafford Country Magazine, Surrey Life, Sussex Life, Warwickshire Life, Wiltshire Magazine, Worcestershire Life or Yorkshire Life

Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs Activity Sticker Book, at Marks & Spencer
First Reader sticker books are a fun way to help develop your child's early reading skills. With over 60 stickers, they provide interactive learning fun, promoting word prediction & joining in. The sticker books support the First Readers story books

Rectangle Face Watch, at Marks n Spencer
Rectangle face Analogue Wind up mechanism Buckle fastening

Fairtrade Organic Cotton Plain Dye Fitted Sheet, at Marks n Spencer
Threadcount: 180 Single (3ft): L190 x W91cm Double (4ft 6in): L190 x W137 cm King (5ft): L200 x W152cm Super-King (6ft): L220 x W183cm Depth: 25cm Easy care finish for easier ironing Available in duvet cover, fitted sheet, flat sheet and pillowcase, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Limited Collection Rio Charm Necklace, at M&S
Clasp fastening Multiple charms Multi strand Necklace length 47.5cm, extendable by 7.5cm

Assorted Bead Long Necklace, at Marks & Spencers
Necklace length 102cm, extendable by 8cm Clasp fastening Adjustable length Assorted bead design

Pure Cotton 3 Button Chunky Knit Cardigan, at Marks n Spencer
Soft and comfy, this 3 button chunky knit cardigan is outstanding value. A fashionable easycare style

Per Una Diamond Print Crinkled Scarf with Wool, at M&S
This sophisticated diamond print scarf is the perfect accessory to this season's fashions. The crinkled finish adds a stylish finishing touch.

Black & Ivory Die Cut Rose Wedding Card, at Mark & Spencers
Cover text: Wedding Inside message: Blank for your own message Approx size: 230 x 114mm

Whole Side of Oak Smoked Orkney Salmon, at MarksandSpencer
Serves 12-15 Ready to eat Suitable for freezing 500g As featured on page 24 in the food to order brochure Order by 5pm to collect in 5 days Available for collection in the majority of our UK mainland stores

Perfect Long Sleeve Oblong Cardigan, at Marks and Spenser
The fluid, elegant cut of this cardi is wonderfully flattering. Team it with jeans or cords for easy autumn style.

Secret Support™ Cotton Rich Vest, at Marks & Spensers
Add a soft, supportive layer to your daily attire with the Secret Support™ incorporated into the design of this cosy vest. This wardrobe essential now has a smoother edge and longer length for an improved look and extra comfort

Shopping for financial products at M&S Money Direct UK website is just as simple as shopping for fashion or furniture at the Marks and Spencer online store. Here are just some of the financial products which can be purchased via the M&S Money Direct website:

• M&S Insurance: M&S Motor Insurance, M&S Buildings Insurance, M&S Life Insurance, M&S Wedding Insurance, M&S Pet Insurance, M&S Travel Insurance
• M&S Credit Cards: M&S Credit Card, M&S Premium Club Card
• M&S Loans: M&S Car Buying Plan, M&S Personal Loans
• M&S Money: M&S Travel Money for your trips abroad
• M&S Savings: M&S Everyday Savings Account, M&S Fixed Rate Savings, M&S Stocks & Shares ISA, M&S Cash ISA, M&S Unit Trust

Of course, many of these types of product can be purchased elsewhere too; however, once you begin to take a closer look at the products from Marks and Spenser, it's easy to see that these are good financial products, at value-for-money prices.

And, just as importantly, contacting M&S Money Direct in the event of a query, or an insurance claim, is as easy as picking up the phone, or visiting the M&S Money Direct website.